What Happens If Calcific Tendinitis Is Not Treated?

Calcific tendinitis involves calcium deposits within a shoulder tendon. Some deposits become less active and symptoms settle, while others irritate the tendon and surrounding tissues. Pain can be sharp during reaching overhead or lying on the affected side, and stiffness may make dressing, washing, or reaching behind your back harder.

A painful flare does not show how large a deposit is by itself. Persistent symptoms can also cause guarded movement, which may reduce shoulder strength and flexibility. Shoulder Pain and Pain When Lifting the Arm can have other causes, so an examination helps distinguish them.

Arrange an assessment if pain continues, movement is limited, or sleep is disrupted. The clinician may use an examination and imaging to understand the deposit and tendon. Depending on the findings, options can include Physiotherapy, a Cortisone Injection for selected inflammation, or Shockwave Therapy. Shoulder Arthroscopy may be discussed when symptoms remain limiting despite non-surgical care.

Seek urgent help after a significant injury, or if the shoulder is suddenly very painful and cannot be moved. Arrange prompt review for fever, marked redness or warmth, new weakness, or pain that is rapidly worsening. These features can point to problems other than a routine flare.

Ask whether imaging is needed, whether the deposit is affecting a tendon, and what movement is safe during a flare. Discuss how Physiotherapy, Shockwave Therapy, or a Cortisone Injection would fit your findings before considering Shoulder Arthroscopy.